Why does Bible Baptist Church Katipunan stand here? Bible Baptist Church Katipunan stands as a testament to faith and education. This church’s story is intertwined with Cebu Bob Hughes Christian Academy. The academy is one of the ministries of Bible Baptist Church Katipunan. It focuses on developing students spiritually and academically.
In 1957, Rev. Robert “Bob” Hughes founded Bible Baptist Church Cebu City. Rev. Hughes envisioned a Christian school. This school would train the church’s boys and girls. After Rev. Hughes left for the US, Dr. Armie Jesalva took over in 1969. Dr. Jesalva was a medical doctor. He became a full-time pastor.
It wasn’t until 1978 that the Christian school vision materialized. Dr. Jesalva recognized the importance of Christian education. He wanted to train young people in God’s ways. In 1977, Dr. Jesalva learned about the Accelerated Christian Education Curriculum. This program was from the United States. Dr. Donald Howard, the program’s founder, was promoting it in the Philippines.
Dr. Jesalva met with Dr. Howard. He was impressed with the ACE curriculum. It emphasized character building and spiritual growth. Dr. Jesalva believed it was God’s plan for Bible Baptist Church.
Finances were tight. But Dr. Jesalva sold his car. The money financed staff training. It helped construct student offices and buy school materials. It also helped pay staff salaries. The core team included Dr. Jesalva, his wife Mrs. Liberty Jesalva, Mrs. Sarah Soria, Mrs. Daisy Saja, and Miss Rafaelita “Pie” Navaja.
In 1978, Bob Hughes Christian Academy was founded. It started with 80 students. A pre-school opened a year later. It was called “The Self Pronouncing Alphabet.” BHCA became the second Accelerated Christian Education School nationwide. The first graduates completed their studies in 1981.
Today, Bible Baptist Church Katipunan is located at 55 Katipunan Street. Cebu Bob Hughes Christian Academy is also at this address. The school has one three-story building. It includes a canteen, lab, offices, a library, a clinic and a computer lab. The school also uses the church’s auditorium and function room.
Cebu Bob Hughes Christian Academy changed its name. It now operates with new officers under the Securities and Exchange Commission. The school aims to instill Biblical character, truth and wisdom. This prepares students for service to God, families, and communities.
Bible Baptist Church Katipunan continues its mission. It provides spiritual guidance and educational opportunities. The church’s phone number is +63 32 261 1900. Services are held on Sundays and Wednesdays. The church remains committed to its core values. These values include intimacy with God, moral excellence and accountability. The church strives to make a Christian impact on civil society.